Autumn Skies

Prologue: Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald is 17, Sheridan Crane is 15. Sheridan has been searching for an unconditional and true love practically her whole life, and her heart has been broken so many times she has lost count. Luis has had quite a few girlfriends, but he has never found what he is looking for. So read on to find out when these two just happen to cross paths :)

Chapter 1:

"Dear Lord," Sheridan began, trying to find the right words to say. "my whole life I have wanted; needed, one thing. I have always desired to have that unconditional love that your family is supposed to show you." Sheridan laughed uncomfortably. Love..her family? Not towards her anyways. She was so different from them...it was if she didn't belong. And they had always gone out of their way to make sure that she knew what she meant to them: Nothing. Sheridan shook her head slightly and continued. "Anyways, my New Years resolution is to find that true love. And I pray that you will help me find it. So as I drink this Pink Catabwa grape juice, please let it bless me. Amen." And with that, Sheridan downed her glass of grape juice and climbed into bed. She felt different, but deep inside she knew not to expect anything.

"Luis?" Beth asked as she slow-danced danced with Luis, slightly annoyed. "Huh? What?" he asked, shaken from his daze. "What the hell is wrong with you tonight? You've been in another world all evening!" she growled. "Sorry Beth...it's just that my mind is on other things." Luis knew that was a mistake the minute he said it. He saw Beth's face go from angry to furious. Oh hell. "OTHER things? You sure as hell better hope you're not cheating on me-" "I am NOT cheating on you, Beth. God, how could you think that? I love you." he lied.

Luis knew he didn't love her, but he would rather lie to her right now than cause a scene. "You had better mean that. I know 20 men who would kill to love me." she said firmly, grabbing his face in one of her hands. "What the hell do you mean by-" "MIDNIGHT IS IN 10 SECONDS EVERYONE!" Everyone joined in the counting down. "10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1....HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!" everyone shouted. "Happy new year, Lopez-Fitzgerald." Luis muttered under his breath.

And at the very same time, Sheridan was dreaming of someone she had never met before. He was tall, dark, and handsome. As she continued to dream, a small smile spread across her lips. "Happy new year, Sheridan." she sighed in her sleep.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 2:

Sheridan groaned. It was the weekend in the middle of January and here she was stuck at work. And to make matters worse, she was all alone since everyone else was on break or lunch. It didn't really matter though...there was no one in the store at the current moment considering how slow business was today. Sheridan worked in "Claire de Lune", a French boutique and cosmetics/jewelry shop for women. Now as she stood behind the jewelry counter she contemplated whether or not to leave. Luis ran a hand through his dark brown hair as he stopped in front of "Claire de Lune". Beths' birthday was tomorrow, and he knew if he didn't get her a gift she wouldn't talk to him for at least a month. 'Maybe that wouldn't be such a bad thing after all.' he thought to himself as he walked inside the store. Sheridan was just about to leave her spot when she heard the door open. 'Oh great...just what I need. Another rather large lady that wants to know if we have something in her size.' she thought to herself rolling her eyes. As she turned around to see who it was, her mouth immediately dropped open. This young man was mouthwatering. She quickly tried to regain her composure as he approached her at the counter.

"Hi." he said in a sexy low voice. "H-hello, may I help you?" she managed to stutter out. "Yeh, I'm looking for something to get my girlfriend for her birthday.." he trailed off. The minute he said 'girlfriend', Sheridan frowned. 'Great Sheridan..you sure can pick them out.' "Um, do you have anything in mind?" Luis looked at the girl. She looked a couple of years younger than him, but she certainly was beautiful. So beautiful, in fact, that Luis couldn't seem to tear his gaze away from her. "What do you think I should get her?" "Hmmm..how about some perfume?" "Sounds good to me, what kinds do you have?" "Well, we have millions, but if you want my personal opinion, I think you should go with this." she said as she walked out from behind the counter towards him and placed a bottle in front of him. "Forever Mine?" he asked. "Yes, it happens to be my favorite. In France they call it 'Chercheur vrai de l'amour', which means 'Searcher of true love'. I wear it all the time.." she trailed off. This man had the most intense gaze she had ever seen. It almost killed her to not be able to do anything but stand there.

Soft heavenly eyes gazed into me
Transcending space and time
And I was rendered still
There were no words for me to find at all
As I stood there beside myself
I could see you and no one else

When I saw you
When I saw you
I could not breathe, I fell so deep
When I saw you
When I saw you
I'd never be, I'd never be the same

"Well, I'd love to smell its scent." he replied. "Oh...well I'm afraid the tester bottle just ran out yesterday." Luis stepped closer to her. So close that it made Sheridan's breath get caught in her throat. He looked at her nametag. "Well, Sheridan, since you wear it all the time, do you mind if I..?" Sheridan nodded yes. She would have submitted to anything this man said at this minute.

Only once in a lifetime love rushes in
Changing you with the tide
And dawn's ribbon of light
Bursts through the dark
Wakening you inside
And I thought it was all untrue
Until there all at once I knew

When I saw you
When I saw you
I could not breathe, I fell so deep
When I saw you
When I saw you
I'd never be, I'd never be the same

He put her in such a trance that it made her heart want to pound out of her chest. With a killer smile, he pulled her closer to him but wrapping his arms around her waist lightly. As her hands on his chest being the only thing that separated them, his head moved down to her neck and took in her scent. "Well, if you want my personal opinion, I don't think you will have to search for true love, any man would be lucky to have you." he whispered huskily in her ear. Sheridan let out a soft sigh before pulling apart.

With no beginning and
Without an end
You are the one for me
It's evident
And your eyes told me so
Your eyes let me know...

When I saw you
When I saw you
I could not breathe, I fell so deep
When I saw you
When I saw you
I'd never be, I'd never be the same

He flashed her another smile. "That's a very nice perfume you are wearing, but I don't think it's for someone like my girlfriend." Sheridan was curious. "Oh-doesn't your girlfriend believe in true love?" "Oh sure she does, but her idea of true love is making sure she is attached to me for the rest of her life." Sheridan smirked. "Well I'm glad I could be of service to you..?" "Luis. Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald." Sheridan smiled. "Please stop by again if you want to talk about your girlfriend some more." Luis grinned. "Is it ok if I stop by just to talk to you..and not about my girlfriend?" Sheridan eyes widened slightly. "Of course. I work every Saturday..unfortunately." Luis laughed. "I'll see you then." "Have a nice day." "Oh I will now." Sheridan smiled at his last comment. He gave her a sexy wink and walked out the door. Sheridan then allowed herself to collapse on the counter. "GOD that man was ffffiiiinnnnneeeeeee!!" she screamed. She looked at the bottle in front of her. 'Hmmm...maybe I should buy some more of this stuff.' she smiled as she put it away. Suddenly, one of Sheridan's best friends MyKynzi returned from lunch and walked through the door. "Hey Sheridan, how'd things go? Sorry for leaving you all alone for so long. I hope you weren't bored and lonely." "Oh don't worry, I wasn't." Sheridan grinned.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 3:

As the weeks went by, Luis would come and visit with Sheridan every Saturday. The more she got to know him, the more she fell in love with him. She had never been so close to a man before, and now that she was, she wanted nothing more than to be with him. But that would have to wait. She wasn't even sure if he felt the same way. And besides, she had made a promise to God that after her last heartbreak that she would never again admit her feelings for a man first. In short, it looked like she would be spending yet another Valentines' Day alone.

"Hello?" Beth asked. "Hey baby." Luis responded. "Oh well isn't this a nice surprise! I'd like to talk but I was fixing to walk out the door." Beth said cheerily. "Oh that's ok, I'll talk to you later then?" he asked a little disappointed. "Of course. I love you, Luis." "I love you too, Sheridan." Luis slapped his hand over his mouth. Oh shit. Beth then screamed a few choice words into the phone at Luis. "B-Beth I didn't mean that I'm really so-" "WHO THE HELL IS SHERIDAN?"

Beth yelled so loudly that Luis had to remove the phone from his ear. "It's not what you think, Beth, I-" "YOU JERK! I HATE YOU! DON'T EVER TALK TO ME AGAIN!" And with that, Beth slammed the phone down hardly. 'Way to go Lopez-Fitzgerald you idiot!' Luis mumbled and cursed under his breath before hanging up the phone. "Great, when Beth gets like that she won't want anything to do with me for a long time. Looks like you're going to have yourself a great Valentines day." he said outloud to himself. Suddenly, Luis got an idea. He grabbed his jacket and wallet and went outside to his car.

***ONE HOUR LATER***

Sheridan sat curled up on her couch. She was wearing a satin red dress that went down to above her knees and had a slit. The back crisscrossed and she wore matching red heels. She had no reason for dressing up, she always tried to look nice for Valentines Day. Not like she was expecting anyone to see her though. Then out of the blue her doorbell rang. 'Great, it's probably MyKynzi wanting to go guy-hunting at the mall.' she rolled her eyes and walked to the door. Sheridan nearly fainted when she opened the door. Right before her stood Luis, with a dozen roses in hand.

"Luis? What are you doing here?" she asked in shock. "Well, I know you said last Saturday that you didn't have a boyfriend. And I couldn't have you spend the most romantic holiday of the year alone, now could I?" "That's so sweet of you, but what about Bet-" "Forget about her." Sheridan looked in his eyes. 'They must have had a fight.' she thought to herself inviting him in. "These are for you." Luis handed her the dozen roses.

Sheridan smiled sweetly and gave him a quick hug before walking into the other room to put the flowers in a vase. As soon as she was gone, Luis patted his jacket pocket to make sure the package was still there. "Please, make yourself at home in the living room, Luis." Sheridan called from the other room. Luis walked into the living room and sat on the couch. On his right, there was a table with some pictures of Sheridan and her family. He picked up one of Sheridan's and held it in his hands.

Sheridan walked into the living room and noticed Luis looking at her picture. He seemed so engrossed in it. She smiled as she sat down next to him. "Hey." "Oh, hi Sheridan.." he replied placing the picture back in its place. Luis turned around to face her. God she was beautiful. "Do you want to talk about it?" Sheridan asked, shaking him from his thoughts. "About what?" he responded puzzled. "About Beth." "Oh. That. No, I'd rather talk about something else. Where's your family?" "They decided to go out of town for the weekend." she replied, her voice tinted with a slight shakiness.

"Why didn't you go with them?" Sheridan's face turned pale as she frowned. "I wasn't invited..." she said quietly. Luis' heart fell. "I'm sorry." "No, it's ok, really." Sheridan replied adverting her eyes from his powerful gaze. Luis brought her face to meet his. "Are you sure you're ok?" he asked, staring deeply into her eyes. Sheridan nodded no. Then came the tears. Luis scooted closer to her and she buried her face against his shoulder and cried. He held her in his arms and stroked her hair as she continued. "My mother informed me it was a 'family' vacation only."

Sheridan weeped. Luis' hand ran down her back and he pulled her up to look at him. "Sheridan, you deserve all the love in the world, and if you are shown or told otherwise, I'll kick their ass." Sheridan couldn't help but smile slightly. "Thank you for being so understanding, Luis." "Thanks for being willing to talk to me about it." "So.." she trailed off, not knowing what to say. "Well, seeing as it is Valentines Day, I thought I might give you a gift." he smiled, taking a package from his pocket. "Oh, you really shouldn't have done that. You already got me flowers and-" "I really want you to have this." he interrupted.

Sheridan sighed and took the present, opening it slowly. Her mouth dropped open slightly as she read the writing on the box outloud to herself. "Forever Mine perfume? I-I don't know what to say. Thank you so much!" she said happily throwing her arms around him. Luis could feel her body crushed against his, and he almost groaned in pleasure. What was it about this girl that made him dizzy with thought? Ever since the first moment he saw her he couldn't tear his eyes off of her.

Sure, he tended to flirt, but the way he acted around this girl was more than flirting. They had this deep, unspoken, connection that he hadn't ever felt with anyone before...not even with Beth. That was the reason he had wanted to touch, caress, kiss, and hold all of her since the first time his eyes met hers. And it was most likely the same reason he had said her name while talking to Beth on the phone.

Luis pulled away slightly and looked into her eyes, their faces were so closet together that it wouldn't take much to meet her in a kiss. Her eyes reflected the same passion and desire as his held. Swallowing hard, he started to inch closer to her soft lips...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 4:

Luis couldn't help it. If he didn't feel his mouth against hers sometime very soon, he'd die. And then, just as their lips were about to brush, the phone rang. 'Damn.' he muttered under his breath as Sheridan gave him an apologetic look and reached for the phone. Had they almost kissed just now? Yes, without a doubt in his mind, Luis knew that if the damn phone hadn't rang that he'd be exploring her mouth right now.

"No, I'm sorry, she's away for the weekend. Can I take a message?" Sheridan's voice broke Luis from his trance. "Alright, I will. Bye." And with that, she hung up the phone and returned her attention to Luis. She couldn't help but notice the look in his eyes. Not only was their disappointment that they were interrupted, but determination to pick up where they left off.

With a killer smile, Luis began moving closer to her lips again. A million thoughts raced through Sheridan's head. 'He has a girlfriend..and I have morals. I will never be able to live with myself if we kiss. But oh God, if I don't kiss him soon I'll die..' Sheridan placed her hands on his chest before he could get any closer, but she didn't push him away. "Luis," she said softly. "Can we do something else?" Luis looked into her eyes. He found hurt and pain from her past, and confusion. She had every right to stop him. He had a girlfriend, and she probably thought that if she gave her heart to him that it would only be broken.

Sheridan's eyes traveled down to his muscular chest, and she moved her hands in a circular motion over his broad shoulders. God, she just couldn't help herself. He was too handsome. Even though she had just asked him to do something else, did she really mean it? Their bodies were close, and Luis' heart rate increased. All time seemed to stop as Sheridan's breath got caught up in her throat. She tried to speak but found she couldn't as he started to move his body closer to hers. She also knew she should push him away, but she just couldn't find the strength. Now he layed down on top of her, and his mouth moved slowly towards hers. His body was pressed into hers, and his lips got closer to hers with every passing second. 'She's too young, and you have a girlfriend.' he tried to tell himself. But he just couldn't help himself.

Just as Luis was so close to her lips that she could feel his breath on her face, she turned her head away from him. She really had meant what she said earlier, and she had to be strong and not give into her passions and desires. Luis breathed a shaky sigh while pulling himself up and bringing her with him. He took her hand and intertwined their fingers. There was so much they wanted to say, but they didn't.

One look into eachothers eyes said everything. He rubbed her hand with his. Sheridan smiled faintly and released her hand from his. "It's getting pretty late, Sheridan..do you want me to go home?" "Nah, I rather like having you around." she smirked. He grinned in return. "Well then, what do you want to do?" "We can watch a movie if you want." "Sounds good." "And seeing as it is Valentines day, we are going to watch a love story." Luis rolled his eyes and Sheridan shot him an evil look. They laughed and Sheridan put in the movie 'Sixteen Candles'.

Halfway through the movie, Sheridan went to go get some drinks for Luis and her. Before returning, she stopped to look into the mirror. She smiled at herself. It seemed like for the first time in her life she felt beautiful. Smiling at her reflection, she picked up the drinks and started back for the living room.

Upon returning, she saw Luis layed down on the couch, sound asleep. A sweet smile spread across her lips as she sat the drinks down on the table in front of the couch and kneeled down beside him. He was so handsome. Before she knew what she was doing, she was running her fingers lightly through his hair, slowly as not to wake him. What did she ever do to deserve him? Just as she became lost in thought about him, his hand grabbed hers. Her hand left his soft hair and was placed against his lips.

He lingered kissing her hand before opening up his eyes. She smiled lovingly at him and stroked his hair again. "Luis, if you're tired you should go home." "You're right. But thank you for allowing me to share Valentines day with you." he said getting up and walking to the door with her. "Thanks for the best Valentines day ever." she replied, opening up the door for him. He flashed her his killer smile and embraced her in a warm hug. "Good night, Sheridan." "Good night, Luis." she sighed happily as he walked out the door and to his car, driving away into the night.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 5:

Sheridan plopped down on the couch, her thoughts heavy on Luis. Was she falling in love? No...it couldn't be. She had never been in love before. Sure, she had had quite a few crushes, but never love. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door, shaking her from her thoughts. 'Who could that be at this time of night?' she thought to herself, puzzled as she opened up the door. The minute the door opened Luis swept her into his arms and kissed her will all of the passion he had buried deep inside for her. Shocked at first, she soon matched the rhythm of his tongue dancing with hers. Her hands then found his hair as his hands traveled down lower...much lower.

He cupped her intimately and pulled her close enough to feel the heat of his throbbing manhood. She moaned loudly in his mouth at the touch of his erection against her most private of areas. After an eternity of kissing, Luis removed his lips from hers. "Sheridan," he said, his voice hoarse from lack of air "I only got around the block when I realized I need you..I need to have you." Sheridan searched his eyes and found the love she hadn't seen earlier. She bent up to his ear and placed a sweet kiss on it. "Then take me." she whispered softly, his mouth releasing a shaky sigh. "Are you sure?" he asked. He would stop if she asked, but it wouldn't be easy. Sheridan took his hands and led him up the stairs to her bedroom where he layed down on top of her on her bed. She knew she wanted him too, she just prayed that this was real love.

Sheridan became more lost in him with every passing second. Things were far beyond heated. Everything was going so fast, and before she knew it, both of their clothes were gone. "Slow down." Sheridan said softly, removing her lips from his. "I'm sorry baby..how's this?" His lips left her mouth and traveled to her neck. Sheridan's fingernails lightly scratched his back, urging him to continue. "Mmm, much better." He lightly nibbled on her soft flesh and began making his way down towards her breast.

"Luis!..oh, Luis.." Sheridan moaned as he took her hardened peak into his mouth. He began sucking on it softly, torturing her with his tongue. Then his teeth began to tease her nipple, causing her to run her hands roughly through his hair. He kissed his way over to her other nipple to repeat the same process. "God, you taste so good, Sheridan." he groaned as he continued sucking on her other breast. Once he was done, Sheridan pulled his lips back up to hers for a fiery kiss.

She flipped them over so she was on top, ready to return the favor. Her mouth moved its way leisurely down his chest all the way to his manhood. Her hand moved up and down his erection and it grew harder with every movement. "Oh yes, Sheridan..just like that." She squeezed him gently. Deliberately, she slowly slid her body up Luis'. Her mouth caught his in a steamy kiss, and without breaking it, Luis flipped them back over.

He removed his mouth from hers and looked deep into her eyes. Sheridan knew what would happen next, and she knew she would never regret it. "Luis, wait." "What's wrong?" Sheridan looked up into his liquid brown eyes. "Absolutely nothing." she smiled sweetly. "It's just that you're my first, and I want you to know that this is more than just sex to me." "I know..it is to me too. And I'm honored to be your first." Tears streamed down Sheridan's face. "Then join us together, forever." she replied. With a killer smile on his face, he entered her gently. Her eyes shut as the pain shot through her and she let out a whimper.

Luis pressed his body against hers as he kissed away her tears before catching her mouth in a love-filled kiss. He began to move within her as he broke their kiss. Luis looked down at Sheridan. Her eyes were still closed, and she began to match the rhythm of his thrusts. He began to quicken the pace. A smile spread across Sheridan's face as wave after wave of passion began to take her. "Open your eyes, Sheridan." he said in a husky voice. Her eyes opened slowly and stared into his own. Lost in his trance, Luis thrust into her one more time causing both of them to go over the edge. Sheridan yelled his name and heard her own name called as well.

Sweat clinging to their bodies, Luis exited her and layed beside her. Instinctively, she moved closer to him as he wrapped her in his arms. "I love you, Sheridan. You're mine now." Sheridan kissed his chest. "I love you too, Luis." They layed in a comfortable silence for a few moments, both content with being in eachothers arms, when Sheridan yawned. She could feel her eyes become heavy with exhaustion with each passing moment. "Luis, promise you won't leave me." He kissed her head. "Go to sleep, baby. I promise I won't leave you." Knowing that he meant what he said closed her eyes. She soon fell asleep listening to his heartbeat while wrapped tightly in his arms.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 6:

Sheridan woke up with a smile on her face. Here she was, wrapped in the arms of the man she truly loved. Suddenly, a feeling of coldness washed through her. She sat up straight and looked around her, scared that she would come up with nothing. He was gone. Tears ran from her eyes. She yelled his name, her cries becoming more and more frantic. She threw on her robe and ran through the house. But when she looked out the window, her heart broke. His car wasn't there. He was really gone. And he didn't even leave a note. "You promised you wouldn't leave me! How could you let him do this to you, Sheridan? How could he do this to me.." she cried outloud to herself, her tears burning her eyes. She collapsed on the window seat, searching her mind for the answers.

Bring! Bring!! Damn the phone! But what if it was her family. She had to check, or they might come home sooner than planned. Slowly, she staggered herself over to the phone and looked at the Caller ID. Lopez-Fitzgerald. She picked up the phone angrily. "Hey, Sheridan, I-" "Damn you, Luis! Damn you.." she weeped into the phone. "Sheridan? What's-" Not wanting to hear his excuses, she slammed down the phone. Luis was concerned. He grabbed his car keys and was out the door in a flash.

Sheridan curled up on the ground, rocking herself back and forth slowly as her cries became louder. She didn't even hear the front door open, let alone Luis come up behind her. Luis wrapped her in his arms and she didn't push him away. She wept against his chest as he soothed her with his words. "Sheridan? Talk to me.." he said, his voice tinting with pain for her. He didn't even know what was wrong, but his own eyes began to well up with tears seeing her like this. Somehow he managed to keep them back though, he had to be strong for Sheridan..no matter what was wrong. "Y-you promised you wouldn't leave me..why did you lie to me?"

Sheridan said shakily, tears still pouring from her eyes. Luis buried his face in the top of her head. What the hell was she talking about? He didn't remember saying anything about never leaving her last night. But he must have if she was this upset. Luis picked up Sheridan and carried her to the couch. He layed her down gently and knelt down beside her. "Sheridan, I'm sorry, but I honestly don't remember saying that to you last night, but I promise I'll stay with you as long as you want today." "What the hell do you mean? You don't remember last night?" "Well yeh, of course I do, but when did I say that to you?" Sheridan, barely able to hide her anger, searched his eyes. He honestly didn't know. And then, without any warning, the events from last came rushing back to her.

After Luis had left, Sheridan had gone back the living room and layed on the couch, where she was now. Her mind was heavy on Luis as she finished watching the rest of Sixteen Candles. She cleaned up, and, half-awake, she walked upstairs to her room. Too tired to search for pajamas, she slept with nothing on, which would explain why she woke up naked. "It was all a dream.." Sheridan said quietly to herself in a daze. "What was?" Luis asked, confused. Memories from last night, her dream that is, filled her mind.

***FLASHBACKS***

He cupped her intimately and pulled her close enough to feel the heat of his throbbing manhood. She moaned loudly in his mouth at the touch of his erection against her most private of areas.

You're only just a dream boat
Sailing in my head
You swim my secret oceans
Of coral, blue and red
Your smell is incense burning
Your touch is silken yet
It reaches through my skin
Moving from within
And clutches at my breast

(Chorus)
But it's only when I sleep
See you in my dreams
Got me spinning round and round
Turning upside down
But I only hear you breathe
Somewhere in my sleep
Got me spinning round and round
Turning upside down
But it's only when I sleep
And when I wake from slumber
Your shadow's disappeared
Your breath is just a sea mist
Surrounding my body
I'm working through the daytime
But when it's time to rest
I'm lying in my bed
Listening to my breath
Falling from the edge

(Repeat chorus)

Up to the sky, where angels fly
I'll never die, Hawaiian high It's reaching through my skin Moving from within
And clutches at my breast
But it's only when I sleep See you in my dreams
Got me spinning round and round
Turning upside down

"I love you, Sheridan. You're mine now." Sheridan kissed his chest. "I love you too, Luis."

In bed I lie, no need to cry My sleeping cry, Hawaiian high

"Sheridan?" Luis asked quietly, taking her hand in his. She snapped back to reality..harsh reality. Now she would have to explain everything to Luis. She felt horrible for the way she treated him. Not knowing what to do, She threw her arms around him and hugged him tightly. "I'm sorry, Luis. So sorry.." she cried. "Shh...it's ok." he said, trying his best to calm her. "Do you wanna talk about it?" Sheridan nodded no. Luis kissed her forehead, only making Sheridan blush with more memories of her dream. "It's ok, we don't have to talk about it if you don't want to." "Thank you for being such a wonderful friend, Luis." Luis smiled. "So, what would you like to do today?" "Luis, you don't have to spend another day with me." "But I want to." he insisted. Sheridan smiled sweetly. "Want to go ice skating? Today's the last day the rink is open for the year." "Let's go." he grabbed her hand and began to lead her out the door.

"Um, Luis?" "Yeh?" "Can I change first?" she smirked. "Aww geeze, Sheridan, what's wrong with what you got on?" Luis asked, not bothering to look. "Luis!" Sheridan laughed. He turned around and his face turned slightly red. Here he was about to pull Sheridan out of the house with only a robe to her name. Of course he didn't have a problem with that. 'Damnit, stop it, Luis!' he scolded himself for having such lustful thoughts about a 15 year old girl. "I'll wait for you." Luis flashed her his killer smile. She ruffled his hair playfully with her hand. "You're so innocent it's cute, Luis." she joked, walking up the stairs to her room to change. 'Ohh..I'm not as innocent as you think...UGH!' he slapped his hand to his forehead and ran his hand through his hair. It was going to be a long day.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 7:

After renting their skates and putting them on, Luis and Sheridan headed out onto the ice. Sheridan immediately lost her balance, but Luis caught her. "Hey, have you ever done this before?" Sheridan blushed. "Once, in sixth grade. I fell down and never tried again." Luis laughed. "It's ok, there's really nothing to it. Try again." As soon as he let her go, she once again lost her balance and fell down to the ground.

The only problem is that she tried to grab onto Luis for support and instead brought him tumbling down with her. They both laughed until they realized their position. Here Luis was on top of her, and even though it was cold in the rink, Sheridan's body temperature was quickly rising. Her smile slowly faded and she adverted her eyes from his powerful gaze. Luis took her hand in his and pulled them up. He kept hold of her hand as they continued to skate.

**ONE HOUR LATER**

Sheridan had finally stopped wobbling and was now able to actually talk without fear or losing concentration and falling down. "You know, you never did say why you called this morning." Sheridan said breaking the silence between them. "Yeh, I wanted to talk to you about Beth." Sheridan cringed at the name, but faked it with a smile. "What about Beth?" "I, uh, kinda broke up with her late last night." Sheridan could barely hide the excitement building up in her, but she forced it down. "What do you mean you broke up with her? What happened?" "I was just tired, Sheridan.

And plus, you know how long I've wanted to break up with her. I guess last night was the final push I needed." Sheridan froze. What was he talking about? What final push? Could he possibly mean what happened between them last night? Did last night mean more than just hanging out to Luis? "Well, if that's what you wanted, I'm happy for you." she smiled. Luis smiled back. "Yeh, me too." He looked over at Sheridan, whom seemed to be very distant. No, she couldn't possibly know she was the final push. She couldn't know that he liked her...a lot. There was no way she could have figured out that he wants to be with her, or could she have?

After ice skating for what seemed like forever, Luis and Sheridan turned in their skates and he drove her home. "Thank you for taking me out Luis. I had a really great time." Sheridan smiled as they walked in the door of her house. "What makes you think we're done yet?" Luis smirked at her. Sheridan raised an eyebrow. "What else could you possibly have planned?" "Since this is our last day together before your family returns home tomorrow afternoon, I thought we'd go out and eat dinner together."

"Oh, Luis, that's so sweet of you. Where would you like to go?" "Well, I before I came over I had already made reservations somewhere, if that's ok." "That's fine..where are we going?" "Now, that's the surprise. But you'll need to dress formally." Sheridan's smiled wildly. Luis was taking her to a fancy restaurant for dinner! This was too good to be true. "Alright." she finally replied. "Ok, I'll be back in an hour to pick you up." he grinned before walking out the door. Sheridan finally released the breath she had been holding for so long. It was going to be a long night.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 8:

Sheridan was just finishing up her make-up when her doorbell rang. She looked at herself in the mirror and smiled. Her dress, was made of red velvet, and it was tight and low cut, but at the end it flowed as it traced over the ground. In the back, it was criss crossed and it showed off her figure very well. She practically ran down the stairs. And when she opened up the door, she almost died. She always knew Luis was handsome, but damn, tonight he was F-I-N-E fine! He showed off his killer smile and took her hand in his. "You look beautiful. Ready to go?" Unable to speak, she nodded her head yes and walked with him to his car.

They finally arrived at the restaurant, and Sheridan gasped. Her favorite restaurant! "Oh, Luis..you remembered?" "Of course I did. I hope it's still your favorite place." "Yes, it is. Thank you so much for bringing me here." she smiled sweetly. She never thought that he would remember something that seemed so unimportant-but he did! They walked inside and were seated at their reserved table.

After they had ordered something to drink, Luis took Sheridan's hand from across the table. "Sheridan, I want you to know that this is more than just hanging out to me." Sheridan froze. "You mean-" "I want us to start dating, starting right now." Sheridan smiled and fought back her tears. She had never been so happy. "Ok, Luis. I want to too." He seemed relieved and kissed her hand before releasing it.

Everything was going great, they were talking about anything and everything. They had ordered their food and were really enjoying themselves. After finishing the main course, Sheridan excused herself to the bathroom. Luis sat patiently at the table, a love-struck smile spread across his face. He was falling in love with her, he knew it. Lost in his thoughts, he almost didn't see what was coming his way-he almost didn't see her. "Hey sexy."

"Damnit Beth, what are you doing here?" "I came to tell you I forgive you, and I want you back." Beth-" But that was all he could get out before she forced her lips on his. And his world crashed seconds later as he saw Sheridan out of the corner of his eye coming from the bathroom, tears falling down her face.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 9:

Sheridan gazed into the bathroom mirror, dizzy with thoughts of Luis. She was so happy that the elderly lady next to her could tell by the dopey smile on her face that she had it bad. The old lady giggled slightly as she walked out of the bathroom. Sheridan ran her hands through her hair aimlessly, before realizing she needed to get back to Luis. She quickly reapplied her lipstick, fixed her hair, and exited the bathroom, anxious to get back to him. As she began to walk to their table, she spotted a couple kissing. 'Well, it looks like someone is in love.' Sheridan thought to herself. But as she got closer she realized who it was. She felt the tears burning her eyes as she watched them kiss. "Luis." Sheridan whimpered just above a whisper.

Luis nearly threw Beth off of him. "Sheridan-" Luis tried to say, but he was too late. She was already running for the door, her sobs heard by everyone in the restaurant. "Damn you, Beth!" Luis yelled as he grabbed his jacket and ran after Sheridan. "Wait, Luis!!" Beth called after him, but he was already gone. Beth was left with everyone in the restaurant staring at her.

It was pouring rain outside, but Sheridan didn't notice. All she cared about was getting away from Luis. Damn him! How could he say he wanted to go out with her one minute and then kiss his ex-girlfriend the next behind her back? "Men!" Sheridan grumbled under her breath. "Sheridan!" Luis yelled, grabbing her arm. "Don't touch me!" she snapped at him, jerking her arm away. Luis grabbed her arm again. "God damnit it, Luis! Let me go!" Sheridan scowled as if his touch was setting her on fire-and it was. "Please, Sheridan...will you at least let me explain?" Luis begged.

Sheridan stopped trying to pull away her arm. The raindrops hid her tears, but she knew Luis could tell by the mascara running down her face that she was crying. "What is there to explain? I saw with my own eyes what happened." Sheridan replied coldly. "No, Sheridan. That's not what happened. Beth found me when you went to the bathroom and kissed me. I swear it was over before I could push her away. Do you believe me?" Sheridan saw the honesty in his eyes and collapsed against his chest.

Her sobs came back, and Luis kissed her head as he ran his hands through her hair. "I'm so sorry, Sheridan.." he soothed. "Do you forgive me?" Sheridan lifted her head to meet his. She nodded yes and he stared into her deep blue eyes as he broke out into a killer smile. Luis bent his head down slightly, and gently kissed Sheridan's lips. All time seemed to stop as they clung to eachother as if they would die if they were to ever part again.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 10:

It is now the end of August, and Luis and Sheridan have been dating for 6 months. Autumn is just beginning, and Luis and Sheridan's love is reaching its peak. Luis and Sheridan stumbled into Luis's house laughing after returning from a date at the park. He kissed her and backed her against a counter. They were soon overcome by their passion for eachother. "I want..you..Sheridan.." Luis mumbled against her lips between kisses. Sheridan stared up into his brown eyes. He paused. "I'm sorry, Sher. I didn't mean to be so blun-" Sheridan kissed him with a fervently. He looked into her eyes. "Are you sure about this, Sher?" She nodded yes.

Luis searched her eyes for the truth, and when he saw them overcome with passion, he kissed her neck and picked her up in his arms. He carried her up to his room. Sheridan moaned as Luis layed on top of her, kissing her neck and nibbling slightly. They had somehow lost their clothes on their way to his room, but that was the last thing on her mind right now. She could always find them later. As her moans increased to cries, Luis took his finger and gently entered her. He stirred every living cell in her body. "Don't stop, Luis!"

Sheridan screamed as he moved his finger harder and faster. He knew she was close to the edge, and so was he. He gently removed his finger from her opening and positioned himself over her. Lovingly, Luis kissed her as he moved himself inside of her. As his thrusts became more and more deep and rough, Sheridan matched his rhythm. They both reached their peak and cried out eachothers names; Luis collapsed against Sheridan. They layed like that for what seemed like forever before he carefully removed himself from her and held her in his arms. "I love you, Sher." Luis whispered as she began to fall asleep. "I love you too." she muttered back against his chest. He smiled as he too drifted off to sleep.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 11:

Sheridan sighed as she leaned into Luis's arms. It was September 1st, and they were sitting under autumn's starry night skies. "You cold, babe?" Luis asked politely as Sheridan shivered against him. "A little." she replied. "Let me warm you up." he grinned. Sheridan frowned. "Luis-stop." "What's wrong with you?" he asked, kissing her neck. "I said stop!" she said a bit louder, pushing him away and getting up. "What the hell is going on? I was just trying to-" "Does everything we do have to do with sex now?" Sheridan yelled. "What's that supposed to mean?

That I pressure you into having sex everytime we're together?" "Yes! Not a single date has gone by without you asking me to come to bed with you ever since our first time together." "It takes two to tango, honey!" Luis retorted. Sheridan gasped and slapped him. "Fuck you!" "Sheridan..I'm sorry-" "Just stop it, Luis." she said shaking her head and beginning to walk away. "Wait! Where are you going?" Luis called after her, catching up to her. "Away from you! I can't take this anymore." Luis froze. "So what are you saying?"

Sheridan opened up her mouth to speak, but Luis stopped her. He took her chin with his hand and rubbed her face lightly. "Please don't say it." "I-I'm sorry Luis...we just need some time apart." "Are you sure?" Sheridan nodded. He smiled slightly and embraced her in a hug. "At least let me take you home." Sheridan agreed, and under the Autumn skies, he walked her home. Luis left with no kiss, no I love you, or a hug. He simply looked deep in her eyes and turned to leave, never looking back. Sheridan's eyes filled with tears. 'What have you done, Sheridan?...'

To Be Continued...

Chapter 12:

It must have been only days that went by, but to Sheridan they felt like years. She had locked herself away in her room and now she was constantly sick to her stomach, which was most likely due to her not eating. A knock came on her door. "Sheridan, darling? Please come out and eat dinner with us." Ivy said softly. No response. "Honey, I'm begging you." Ivy frowned when she still didn't respond. She refused to let her daughter do this to herself. Sheridan deserved so much better than this boy. Ivy opened up the door to Sheridan's room while trying to talk to her.

"Sheri-" Ivy fell to the ground next to her daughters body. "SHERIDAN!" she screamed as her daughter layed curled up on the ground, holding her stomach in pain. Sheridan opened her mouth to speak, but Ivy stopped her. "Shh don't talk honey. JULIAN! Call 911!" she yelled at the top of her lungs. 'Oh dear God, let her be alright..' Ivy prayed in her mind as she held her daughters frail body in her arms.

Luis lay flat on his back on his bed. He was in nothing but his boxers, and he hadn't shaved or ate since Sheridan broke up with him. God, he missed her. Why the hell did things turn out this way? They were supposed to be together forever. Luis just didn't understand. He slapped his hand onto his forehead and rubbed his temples lightly. Suddenly, his stomach churned. Something was wrong with Sheridan-he could feel it.

Coming to his senses, he jumped up and picked up the phone, dialing her number frantically. 'God, what's wrong with you, Luis? She's probably fine and is going to tell you never to call her again.' Luis cursed himself under his breath. No answer. 'She must be out...' he sighed and hung up. He wanted to believe it, but in his heart he knew something just wasn't right...

To Be Continued...